Is the Pneumonia Vaccine for Adults Safe? We Bust Common Myths

Misinformation is everywhere—from social media to self-proclaimed “experts”—making it harder to separate fact from fiction. 

But when it comes to vaccines, reliable information isn’t just vital; it could save your life, especially when it comes to pneumonia. 

Every year, pneumonia kills 41,108 people, and the pneumonia vaccine for adults is a critical part of safeguarding your health to keep you from becoming one of these disturbing statistics. 

But is the pneumonia vaccine for adults safe?

“Vaccines remain a safe, effective way to spare you from the serious complications that can result from pneumonia,” said Dr. Paul Richardson, Chief Medical Officer. “Our primary care doctors are ready to help determine what vaccines would be appropriate for you based upon your age and risk factors.”

Because there’s so much misinformation, we wanted to take some time to bust some common myths and misconceptions about the pneumonia vaccine for adults.

We Expose the Most Common Myths About the Pneumonia Vaccine

Myth: If I’m Healthy, I Don’t Need a Pneumonia Vaccine

Truth: You Still Need a Vaccine Because Your Immune System Weakens With Age

As we get older, the immune system becomes slower to respond, which is why it takes longer for the body to heal. This happens because the number of immune cells gradually decreases over time. It’s also not as efficient as it is when you were younger.

Myth: The Pneumonia Vaccine Causes Pneumonia

Truth: The Vaccine Doesn’t Have Live Bacteria, so You Will Not Get Pneumonia From the Vaccine

This is a common misconception. We hear it a lot with a variety of vaccines, including the flu and COVID-19. This misconception persists because many do not fully understand how vaccines work.

The pneumonia vaccine works by exposing your body to inactive bacteria. This introduces the bacteria to your immune system so it will “recognize” it and fight it more effectively.

There are no live bacteria in the pneumonia vaccine.

Myth: If I’ve Had the Flu Shot, I Don’t Need the Pneumonia Vaccine

Truth: These Are Two Distinct Illnesses, and Each One Has a Specific Vaccine

Both the flu vaccine and the pneumonia vaccine are vital to keep you healthy–but these are two distinct vaccines. You need both for comprehensive protection.

When Should Adults Get a Pneumonia Vaccine?

You can get a pneumonia vaccine at any time of year, and the Centers for Disease Control recommends vaccination for adults 50 years old and older, as well as children younger than 5. You should speak with your doctor to see if you’re at increased risk for developing pneumonia. If you are, we may recommend a pneumococcal vaccination. 

Are There Any Side Effects of the Pneumonia Vaccine?

As with any vaccine, there can be some side effects, although most who get the pneumococcal vaccination don’t develop any problems. 

Side effects can include:

• Redness, swelling, tenderness or pain at the site of the injection
• Fever or chills
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Muscle aches

If you’re concerned about side effects, we encourage you to speak with one of our primary care doctors in Myrtle Beach and Horry County. Remember: The temporary discomfort associated with the side effects is much better than the serious complications that can be caused by pneumonia.

Who Is at Risk of Getting Pneumonia?

You are at risk of getting pneumonia if you are a certain age:

• Adults 65 years and older are at much greater risk, and this risk increases with age. 
• Children younger than 5 are also at increased risk.

You are at risk of getting pneumonia if you have a chronic medical condition. These conditions may include:

• Liver disease
• Lung disease
• Heart disease
• Diabetes

Those with a weakened immune system are also at risk.

There are some lifestyle behaviors that can increase your risk. These include:

• Excessive alcohol use
• Smoking

For 100 Years, Conway Medical Center Has Served the Needs of The Community

We want you to live the healthiest life possible.

That’s why we’ve assembled a team of specialists—from heart experts to primary care physicians—dedicated to your health. Whether you need preventive screenings or weight-loss surgery, you can count on us for expert, compassionate care every step of the way.

Interested in learning more about Conway Medical Center? Looking for a primary care physician? Just simply contact us to schedule an appointment today.